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Tolkien’s epic trilogy gets theatrical treatment

31 October 2025

Poster

Buckle up for a journey to Middle Earth (and back again) as Anthony Harper Summer Theatre returns to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens this January.

Summer Theatre is a highlight of Christchurch City Council’s summer events programme, and this year is no exception.

Elves, orcs and halflings will take centre stage at the Archery Lawn in The Lord of the Rings in 90 Minutes! An Unauthorised Comedy by Rollicking Entertainment (and JRR Tolkien).

The company behind the 2025 hit, The Complete Voyage of the RMS Titanic are back for the second year running with familiar faces and variety entertainment legends Darlene Mohekey, Dan Pengelly and Lizzie Tollemache taking on a multitude of characters in a playful spin on Tolkien’s epic tale.

“We’re three actors and a musician attempting the impossible – to retell the entire trilogy in one outrageous live experience!” Ms Tollemache says.

"Expect an evening filled with irreverent delight, complete with battles, LOTR bingo and a banging noughties soundtrack.

The Lord of the Rings series is one of the best known and most influential in the world. The films changed the face of tourism in Aotearoa New Zealand forever. Now it’s time for a version that delivers live music, ridiculous impersonations and local jokes up the wazoo,” she says.

“So pack up a picnic - be it lembas bread, potatoes or something raw and wriggling - and see you in the gardens, for the return of the zing!”


Council Manager of Events and Arts Lucy Blackmore says that after last year’s wildly entertaining production, they’re thrilled to have Rollicking Entertainment back.

“Audiences will be in safe hands with these experienced and talented entertainers. We can’t wait to see them work their wizardry, and the beautiful backdrop of the Archery Lawn couldn’t be a more perfect setting,” says Ms Blackmore.

“Christchurch has a wonderful tradition of accessible outdoor entertainment and Anthony Harper Summer Theatre’s open-air production is the ideal opportunity to plan a picnic with friends and whānau this summer.

"All ages are welcome, although these shows are best enjoyed by ages 12 years and over. Entry is free but koha donations will be much appreciated by the theatre company.”

Shows will run at 7pm from Friday 9 January to Sunday 25 January, with weekend matinees starting at 4pm. See the full performance schedule for Anthony Harper Summer Theatre at What’s On.